Mattress sanitizer

ABSTRACT

A system and method for sanitizing a mattress is provided. The system for sanitizing a mattress includes a pair of members with at least one member having at least one UV-C emitter, at least one light source, and at least one air source. An ozone source is in communication with the pair of members. A source of air flow is in communication with the pair of members and a heat source is in communication with the heat source. A spray source is also provided for spraying a solution. A method of sanitizing a mattress comprises the steps of applying UV-C radiation to a mattress to kill microorganisms, providing ozone to the mattress, and combining ozone with UV-C radiation and moisture to produce a purifying agent. The method further comprises the steps of applying pressure and heat to the mattress to kill pathogens and spraying a solution on the mattress.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/419,297 filed on Jan. 30, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/558,510 filed on Dec. 2, 2014, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/591,537filed on Aug. 22, 2012, which claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61/526,843, filed on Aug. 24, 2011. The entiredisclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to a mattress sanitizer and,more particularly, to a mattress sanitizer including at least one memberhaving a UV-C emitter and a source of air flow.

BACKGROUND

This section provides background information related to the presentdisclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

Glove dryers are frequently used to dry moisture that is trapped insideof a glove. This moisture is generated primarily from the palm andfingers of a user's hand. Repeatedly soaking a leather glove withmoisture will cause the leather to become stiff and brittle over time,and ultimately the leather with tear. Moisture that is trapped inside ofthe glove also encourages growth of bacteria and microorganisms. Thebacteria and microorganisms that are trapped inside of the glove createan unpleasant odor.

Moreover, moisture that is generated from the user's hand also containssalt. Salt is especially harmful to leather gloves because salt alsohardens the leather. Traditional grove dryers only evaporate moisturethat is trapped inside the glove. These dryers cannot reduce the salt ordisinfect the glove to reduce the bacteria and microorganisms thatcollect inside of the glove.

Gloves that are used in the Japanese sport of kendo (sometimes calledkote), include a distinctive design where the kendo glove is shaped in ahooked configuration, similar to a boxing glove. These gloves generallyare padded with hair, such as deer hair that is biodegradable. Kendogloves usually include palm portions that are constructed from leather.The palms of kendo gloves are leather because this material is flexible,thereby allowing the user to grasp a sword easily. However, moisture andsalt from the user's palm over time causes the leather portion to becomestiff and brittle, and eventually the leather will tear. This tearing isespecially problematic for the user because some kendo gloves areextremely expensive (at least several hundred dollars) and can be costlyto replace.

Thus, there exists a need for a glove dryer that will reduce moistureand contaminants that are trapped inside of a glove when compared to thecurrent glove dryers that are available today.

SUMMARY

This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not acomprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

According to the present teachings, a system and method for sanitizing amattress is presented. The application has a pair of members with atleast one member having at least one UV-C emitter. An ozone source is incommunication with the pair of members. A source of air flow is incommunication with the pair of members and a heat source is incommunication with the heat source. A spray source is also provided forspraying a solution.

Further, according to the present teachings, a method of sanitizing amattress comprises the steps of applying UV-C radiation to a mattress tokill microorganisms, providing ozone to the mattress, and combiningozone with UV-C radiation and moisture to produce a purifying agent. Themethod further comprises the steps of applying pressure and heat to themattress to kill pathogens and spraying a solution on the mattress.

Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the descriptionprovided herein. The description and specific examples in this summaryare intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended tolimit the scope of the present disclosure.

DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only ofselected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are notintended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is an elevational perspective view of the glove dryer with abase, two conduits and two main members that are configured forreceiving a glove;

FIG. 2 is an elevational perspective view of one of the main members inFIG. 1 and a glove;

FIG. 3 is a partially cross-sectional view of the base and the conduits;

FIG. 4 is a partially cross-sectional view of one of the main membersreceiving the glove and the conduit;

FIG. 4A is an enlarged view of Region 4A in FIG. 4;

FIG. 5 is an elevational perspective view of one of the main members inFIG. 1 including an articulating point;

FIG. 6 is an alternative exemplary illustration of the main member;

FIG. 7 is a partially cross-sectional view of another alternativeexemplary illustration of the main member;

FIG. 7A is an enlarged view of Region A in FIG. 7;

FIG. 7B is an alternative illustration of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8 is a process flow diagram of a method of drying a glove using theglove dryer;

FIGS. 9 and 12 represent alternate dryers according to the presentteachings;

FIGS. 10 and 11 represent a mattress disinfecting apparatus;

FIGS. 13a-13i represent UV lamp ozone cartridges used in the systemsaccording to the present teachings;

FIGS. 14a-14d represent a head gear dryer according to the presentteachings;

FIGS. 15-16 c represent components of the head gear dryer;

FIG. 17 represents a glove dryer according to the present teachings;

FIGS. 18a-18c represent an athletic suit dryer according to the presentteachings;

FIG. 19 represents an athletic suit dryer according to the presentteachings;

FIGS. 20A-20B represent footwear dryer according to the presentteachings;

FIGS. 21A-24 represent alternative dryers according to the presentteachings;

and

FIGS. 25a-25e and 26 represent a cloths drier according to the presentteachings.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughoutthe several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference tothe accompanying drawings.

Referring now to the discussion that follows and also to the drawings,illustrative approaches to the disclosed systems and methods are shownin detail. Although the drawings represent some possible approaches, thedrawings are not necessarily to scale and certain features may beexaggerated, removed, or partially sectioned to better illustrate andexplain the present disclosure. Further, the descriptions set forthherein are not intended to be exhaustive or otherwise limit or restrictthe claims to the precise forms and configurations shown in the drawingsand disclosed in the following detailed description.

According to various exemplary illustrations described herein, a mainmember is provided and includes an outer surface configured forreceiving a glove. The main member includes a plurality of aperturesdisposed along the outer surface. At least one light source for emittinga UV and preferably UV-C light, and at least one air source for blowingair are also provided. The apertures located along the outer surface ofthe main member are in communication with at least the air source. UV-Clight from the light source (such as a OLED, SLD) and air from the airsource can at least partially pass though the outer surface. The mainmember is constructed from a material with a transparency that allowsfor UV-C light from the air source to at least partially pass through.Alternatively, the light source is at least one optical fiber, whereinat least one aperture of the main member receives an end of the opticalfiber, where the end emits the UV-C light. Finally, the glove dryer mayalso include a spray source for spraying a solution, where the spraysource is in communication with the apertures of the main member.

Turning now to the drawings and in particular to FIG. 1, a glove dryer20 is illustrated in FIG. 1 having at least one main member 22, at leastone conduit 24, and a base 26. Each of the main members 22 are incommunication with one of the conduits 24. The conduit portion 24 mayadditionally be perforated to allow air flow into the wrist portion ofthe glove. Optionally, these perforations may be baffled to regulate airflow. In the illustration as shown, the main members 22 each include anouter surface 28 that is configured for receiving a left glove and aright glove respectively. It should be noted that while FIG. 1illustrates the main members 22 configured for receiving gloves, themain members 22 may also be configured to receive other articles suchas, but not limited to, boots. Moreover, although FIG. 1 illustrates theglove dryer 20 including two main members 22, any number of main members22 may be included.

The main members 22 each include at least at a first member 30 forreceiving a thumb of a glove, a second member 32 for receiving an indexfinger of a glove, and a third member 34 for receiving the remainingfingers of a glove. As discussed in greater detail below, the mainmember 22 may also include a fourth member and a fifth member as well,for receiving the ring finger and the little finger of a traditionalfive-finger glove. The main members 22 also include a plurality ofapertures 36 that are disposed along the outer surface 28. The mainmembers 22 also include an adjustable baffle 60. As discussed in greaterdetail below, the baffle 60 is to increase or decrease air flow insideof the main member 22.

FIG. 1 illustrates the main members 22 configured to receive a gloveand, more specifically, the outer surface 28 is configured to receive aglove that is used in the Japanese sport of kendo. As best seen in FIG.2, the main member 22 is contoured along a curved axis A-A. The curvedaxis A-A is contoured to match the hooked configuration of a kendo glove40. That is, the main members 22 are in a hooked configuration, andadapted to fit under the glove 40. Having the main members 22 contouredalong the curved axis A-A is advantageous, because when the glove 40 isplaced on one of the main members 22, the glove 40 is dried anddisinfected while in the hooked configuration, as discussed in greaterdetail below. That is, the main member 22 is configured such that theglove 40 can be dried in the natural shape.

FIG. 3 is a partially sectional view of the conduits 24 and the base 26.The main members 22 may be removable from the conduits 24. For example,in some cases it may be easier to clean the main member 22 by removingthe main members 22 from the conduits 24 first. A passageway 76 islocated inside of the base 26 and connects one of the conduits 24 to theother conduit 24. An air source, such as a fan 70, is used to generateairflow to both the conduits 24 which, in turn, are in communicationwith the main members 22. Although FIG. 3 illustrates the fan 70 as anair source, it should be noted that any device capable of producingairflow may be used. The baffle 60, as seen in FIGS. 1-2, is used toregulate the amount of airflow to the inside surface 84 of the glove 40and, therefore, the amount of air from the fan 70 can be increased ordecreased, depending on what the user desires.

In one illustration, each of the conduits 24 also include a heat sourceto warm the air from the fan 70. FIG. 3 illustrates a heater core 72located inside the passageway 76. Including a heat source such as theheater core 72 is advantageous, because heated air will acceleratedrying of the gloves 40.

An ultraviolet light source 74 is included in the glove dryer 20 aswell. The ultraviolet light source 74 emits UV-C light (also known asgermicidal UV light). UV-C is ultraviolet light in the C bandwidth ofthe ultraviolet light spectrum. Ultraviolet irradiation in the Cbandwidth (UV-C) is used for disinfection purposes because the UV-Clight kills microorganisms, mold and bacteria that are trapped inside ofthe glove 40. In one example, the ultraviolet light source 74 is amercury-vapor lamp that emits UV-C light; however, it should be notedthat any light source that emits UV-C rays may be used as well. In oneillustration, the ultraviolet light source 74 also produces ozone (0₃);however, an ultraviolet light source 74 that does not produce ozone maybe used as well. Ozone and UV-C light are combined with moisture that istrapped inside the glove 40 to remove odors. More specifically, thecombination of ozone and UV-C light with moisture produces chemicals,such as hydroxyl radicals (—OH), which are purifying agents thatneutralize unpleasant odors that are trapped inside of the glove 40.

It should be noted that prolonged exposure to UV-C light that is emittedfrom the ultraviolet light source 74 may be harmful to humans. As aresult, as seen in FIGS. 1-2, a safety device 78 is included along theouter surface 28 of the main members 22. The safety device 78 detects ifthe glove 40 is installed on the main member 22. The ultraviolet lightsource 74 is unable to emit UV-C light unless the glove 40 is secured tothe main member 22. In the illustration as shown in both of FIGS. 1-2,the safety device 78 is located on the third member 34. However, itshould be noted that the safety device 78 may be located anywhere alongthe main member 22. In one illustration, the safety device 78 is asensor that detects the presence of the glove 40 along the outer surface28. However, the safety device 78 can be any device that is able todetect whether the glove 40 is installed along the outer surface 28 ofthe main member 22. More than one safety sensor 78 can also be appliedalong the outer surface 28 of each of the main members 22 as well. Inanother example, the safety device 78 can be a shield or a hood thatprotects against UV-C light that is well-known in the art, and coversthe main members 22 when in use.

Because the glove 40 may contain salt that is emitted from a user'shand, the glove dryer 20 may also include a spray source 80. The spraysource 80 is filled with a solution 82 that breaks down salt thatcollects inside of the glove 40. The solution 82 may also includeingredients that are used to deodorize the inside of the glove 40 suchas, but not limited to, cyclodextrin. Additionally, the solution 82 mayalso include an ingredient to the inside of the glove 40 such as, butnot limited to, isopropyl alcohol or chloroxylenol. In one illustration,the solution 82 may include each of the ingredients that breakdown salt,deodorize the inside of the glove 40, and also disinfect the inside ofthe glove 40. Alternatively, the solution 82 may only include one of theingredients that break down salt, disinfect, and deodorize. The solution82 is applied to the inside of the glove 40 after UV-C light from theultraviolet light source 74 reduces microorganisms, mold, and bacteriathat are trapped inside of the glove 40, as discussed in greater detailbelow.

FIG. 4 is a partially cross-sectional view of the conduit 24, one of themain members 22, and the glove 40. The apertures 36 of the main member22 are in communication with air from the fan 70 (not shown in FIG. 4),ozone generated from the ultraviolet light source 74, and the solution82 from the spray source 80. Therefore, air from the fan 70, ozone fromthe ultraviolet light source 74, and the solution 82 can at leastpartially pass through the outer surface 28 by way of the apertures 36.

In the illustration as shown, the main member 22 is constructed from amaterial such as, but not limited to, a polymer that includes atransparency that allows for UV-C light from the ultraviolet lightsource 74 to at least partially pass through the outer surface 28. A UVstabilizer may be added to the material because some types of polymersinclude a bond structure that is degraded by UV light. In anotheralternative illustration as discussed below, the ultraviolet lightsource 74 may be in direct communication with the apertures 36.Therefore, as seen in FIG. 4, the apertures 36 allow for air, ozone, andthe solution 82 to pass from the glove dryer 20 to an inner surface 84of the glove 40. Because the main member 22 is constructed from amaterial that will at least partially allow for UV-C light to passthough the outer surface 28, UV-C light will also contact the innersurface 84 of the glove 40.

The outer surface 28 also includes a series of horizontally orientedraised portions 86 for creating an airflow space 88 between the mainmember 22 and the glove 40. The apertures 36 are located between theraised portions 86. Indeed, as best seen in FIG. 4A, an upper surface 90of one of the raised portions 86, a lower surface 92 of one of theraised portions 86, and the outer surface 28 of the main membercooperate with the inner surface 84 of the glove 40 to form the airflowspace 88. The airflow space 88 is advantageous because the airflow space88 creates a volume of space that permits for the flow of air, ozone,and the solution 82 between the main member 22 and the inside surface 84of the glove 40. Thus, as may be seen, the airflow space 88 allows air,ozone, and the solution 82 from the main member 22 to contact the insidesurface 84 of the glove 40.

Further, the outer surface 28 may include an anti-bacterial oranti-microbial treatment, such as a metal ion, as disclosed in U.S. Pat.Nos. 5,049,139 and 6,267,782. An example would be a silver ionimpregnated soluble glass coating.

FIG. 5 illustrates an articulating point 94 that is located between thefirst member 30 and the second member 32 of the main member 22. Thearticulating point 94 is used to move the first member 30 and the secondmember 32 towards each other in a direction T and away from each otherin a direction A. The articulating point 94 is used to adjust the firstand second members 30 and 32 to adapt to the shape of the glove 40 in avariety of configurations. More specifically, the articulating point 94is used to adjust the first and second members 30 and 32 with thecorresponding thumb and the index finger of the glove 40. The firstmember 30 is selectively articulated about a first member base 96 andthe second member 32 is selectively articulated about a second memberbase 98. Thus, the first member 30 and the second member 32 of the mainmember 22 are selectively adjustable to match the configuration of theglove 40.

One alternative illustration, as best seen in FIG. 6, the main member122 includes a first member 130, a second member 132, a third member 134for only receiving the middle finger of a glove, a fourth member 142 forreceiving the ring finger of the glove, and a fifth member 144 forreceiving the little finger of a glove. The main member 122 may be usedto dry a kendo glove, such as glove 40. Alternatively, because the mainmember 122 includes the fourth member 142 and the fifth member 144, themain member 122 may also be used to dry a traditional five-finger gloveas well.

In another alternative illustration, as seen in FIG. 7, the ultravioletlight source 274 is at least one optical fiber 250. FIG. 7 is apartially sectional view of the main member 222 and the conduit 224. Themain member 222 includes a plurality of optical fibers 250, where eachof the optical fibers 250 is in communication with one of the apertures236 of the main member 222. As seen in FIG. 7, the apertures 236 of themain member 222 receive an end 252 of one of the optical fibers 250,where the end 252 emits UV-C light from the ultraviolet light source274. It should be noted that only a portion of the apertures 236 receivethe end 252 of one of the optical fibers 250, and a portion of theapertures 236 do not receive the end 252 of one of the optical fibers250. Instead, the apertures 236 that do not receive the end 252 of oneof the optical fibers 250 are in communication with the fan 70 (notshown in FIG. 7) as well as the spray source 280.

The end 252 of the optical fiber 250 transmits UV-C light from the lightsource 274. Thus, as may be seen, the apertures 236 that are incommunication with the end 252 of one of the optical fibers 250 transmitlight to the inside surface 84 of the glove 40. The apertures 236 thatare in communication with the fan 270 and the spray source 280 transmitboth air and the solution 282 to the inside surface 84 of the glove 40(not shown in FIG. 7).

In one approach, as seen in FIG. 7A, the apertures 236 include adiameter D that is large enough to accommodate both of the end 252 ofthe optical fiber 250 and air, ozone and the solution 82. That is, theapertures 236 have enough space to allow for air from the fan 70, ozonefrom the light source 274 and the solution 282 to pass through, inaddition to accommodating the end 252 of the optical fiber 250.

Alternatively, in another illustration as seen in FIG. 7B, the diameterD′ of the apertures 336 may only be large enough to accommodate the end352 of the optical fiber 350. Because the apertures 336 can onlyaccommodate the end 352 of the optical fiber 350, some of the apertures336 are not in communication with the optical fibers 350. The apertures336 that do not include one of the optical fibers 350 are instead usedto communicate air, ozone, and solution 382 to the inside surface 82 ofthe glove 40.

Turning now to FIG. 8, a process 800 for drying a glove using the glovedryer 20 is illustrated. Process 800 may begin at step 802. In step 802,a glove is placed on the main member 22. For example, as discussedabove, the main member 22 includes the outer surface 28 that isconfigured to receive the glove 40. The main member 22 includes aplurality of apertures 36 disposed along the outer surface 28, theultraviolet light source 74 for emitting ultraviolet light, and the airsource, such as the fan 70, for blowing air. Process 800 may thenproceed to step 804.

In step 804, the glove is dried by air from the fan 70, or an air sourcethrough the apertures 36. For example, as discussed above, the apertures36 are in communication with the fan 70 and allow for the air from thefan 70 to pass through the outer surface 28. More specifically, the fan70 generates airflow to both of the conduits 24 that are incommunication with the main members 22, and then pass through theapertures 36 located along the outer surface 28. Process 804 may thenproceed to step 806.

In step 806, UV-C light is emitted from the ultraviolet light source 74,wherein the main member 22 is configured to at least partially allowUV-C light to pass through the outer surface 28. The main member 22 canbe configured in several ways to allow UV-C light to pass through theouter surface 28. For example, as discussed above, the main member 22 isconstructed from a material with a transparency that allows for UV-Clight from the ultraviolet light source 74 to at least partially passthrough the outer surface 28. Alternatively, in another illustration,the ultraviolet light source 274 is at least one optical fiber 250.Process 806 may then proceed to step 808.

In step 808, the apertures 36 are in communication with the ultravioletlight source 274 to allow for UV-C light to pass through the outersurface 28. For example, in one illustration, the main member 222includes a plurality of optical fibers 250, where each of the opticalfibers 250 are in communication with one of the apertures 236 of themain member 222. The apertures 236 of the main member 222 receive theend 252 of one of the optical fibers 250, where the end 252 emits UV-Clight from the ultraviolet light source 274. Process 808 may thenproceed to step 810.

In step 810, the solution 82 is sprayed from the spray source 80, wherethe spray source 80 is in communication with apertures 36. For example,as discussed above, the solution 82 may break down salts. The solution82 may also include ingredients that are used to deodorize the inside ofthe glove 40. Additionally, the solution 82 may also include aningredient (such as, for example, anti-bacterial or anti-microbial) todisinfect any remaining bacteria inside of the glove 40 as well. Thesolution 82 is applied to the inside of the glove 40 after UV-C lightfrom the ultraviolet light source 74 disinfects the microorganisms,mold, and bacterial that are trapped inside of the glove 40. Process 800may then terminate.

FIG. 9 represents an alternate garment dryer 900 according to thepresent teachings. The garment dryer 900 can have a hook 902 coupled toa body structure 904. The body structure 904 can have a pair of armmembers 906 and a pair of leg members 908. The body structure 904defines an internal chamber 910 fluidly coupled to a plurality ofapertures 912 defined within the body structure 904.

Fluidly coupled to the internal chamber 910 is an opening aperture 914having an associated fan 916 associated therewith. The fan 916 isconfigured to apply air pressure or a vacuum to the internal chamber 910and associated apertures 912. It is envisioned the apertures can have aUV-C light and ozone generator source associated therewith as describedin any of the embodiments above.

FIGS. 10 and 11 represent a mattress sterilizer 1000 according to thepresent teachings. The sterilizer 1000 has a pair of closable members1002 hingeably coupled which function to apply UV-C radiation to themattress. Additionally, the mattress sterilizer 1000 functions to applyheat and pressure to the mattress to bring the mattress to a temperatureto kill pathogens. It is envisioned the sterilizer 1000 can have a bagassociated therewith to contain the heat therein.

The system 1000 has controls 1020 which control a plurality of fans 1022and vent exhausts 1024. A plenum 1028 is in communication with themembers 1002 to provide air flow from the fans 1022. Further associatedwith the controller 1020 is a plurality of UV-C emitters 1026 whichfunction as described in any of the examples above. While shown in ahorizontal configuration, it is envisioned the members can behorizontally positioned.

FIG. 12 represents an alternate garment dryer 1100 according to thepresent teachings. The dryer 1100 has a hand shaped body 1102. The body1102 has an associated UV-C emitter 1104, fiber optic cables 1106, andUV emitters 1110 which function to apply UV-C light to various portionsof the exterior surface of the hand shaped body 1102. The LED source canbe, for instance, a LED matrix source as described in U.S. Pat. No.7,328,708 incorporated herein by reference.

FIGS. 13a-13i represent modular components 1200 which are used to supplyUV radiation and/or ozone. The components 1200 have a gas filled tube1202 or LED which supplies UV radiation. Optionally, the UV radiation isdirected to a coated (horizontal or vertical) surface 1206 whichfunctions to produce ozone. Optionally, the components 1200 can have afan 1208 and adjustable baffle 1209 which will disperse the ozone aboutthe garment or textile product being dried or sanitized. Adjustablebaffles can be used to regulate the air flow. Associated with eachcomponent 1200 can be a solar cell 1208 and rechargeable battery 1210.Optionally, any of the components can be powered by A/C or D/C powersource 1212 such as from a vehicle cigarette lighter, or a solar panel.Safing switches can be incorporated which will disable the UV sourceshould any of the systems be disassembled.

FIGS. 14a-16c represent a head gear dryer 2000 according to the presentteachings. The head gear dryer 2000 is illustrated in FIGS. 14a-14chaving at least one main member 2022, at least one conduit 2024, and abase 2026. Each of the main members 2022 are in communication with oneof the conduits 2024. The conduit portion 2024 may additionally beperforated to allow air flow into the wrist portion of the glove.Optionally, these perforations may be baffled to regulate air flow. Inthe illustration as shown, the main members 2022 each include an outersurface 2028 that is configured for receiving the head gear. It shouldbe noted that the main members 22 can be solid, or can be deformable toaccept a varying array of head gears, such as an athletic or motor cyclehelmet.

The main members 22 each include at least at a first member 2030 forreceiving a crown of a head gear, a second member 2032 for receiving aneck portion of the head gear, and a third member 2034 for receiving theremaining head covering. The main members 2022 also include a pluralityof apertures 2036 that are disposed along the outer surface 2028. Themain members 2022 also include an adjustable baffle 60. As discussed ingreater detail below, the baffle 60 is to increase or decrease air flowinside of the main member 22.

As best seen in FIG. 14A, the main member 2022 is contoured along acurved axis A-A. The curved axis A-A is contoured to match the hookedconfiguration of a helmet 2040. That is, the main members 2022 are in ahooked configuration, and adapted to fit under the head gear 2040.Having the main members 2022 contoured along the curved axis A-A isadvantageous, because when the head gear 2040 is placed on one of themain members 2022, the head gear 2040 is dried and disinfected while inthe hooked configuration, as discussed in greater detail below. That is,the main member 2022 is configured such that the head gear 2040 can bedried in the natural shape.

FIGS. 15-16 c are partially sectional views of the conduits 2024 and thebase 2026. The main members 2022 may be removable from the conduits2024. For example, in some cases it may be easier to clean the mainmember 2022 by removing the main members 2022 from the conduits 2024first. A passageway 2076 is located inside of the base 2026 and connectsone of the conduits 2024 to the other conduit 2024. An air source, suchas a fan 70, is used to generate airflow to both the conduits 2024which, in turn, are in communication with the main members 2022. The fan70 as an air source, it should be noted that any device capable ofproducing airflow may be used. As shown with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2,the baffle 60, is used to regulate the amount of airflow to the insidesurface 2084 of the head gear 2040 and, therefore, the amount of airfrom the fan 70 can be increased or decreased, depending on what theuser desires.

As previously described above, the ultraviolet light source 74 isincluded in the head gear dryer 2000 as well. The ultraviolet lightsource 74 emits UV-C light (also known as germicidal UV light). UV-C isultraviolet light in the C bandwidth of the ultraviolet light spectrum.Ultraviolet irradiation in the C bandwidth (UV-C) is used fordisinfection purposes because the UV-C light kills microorganisms, moldand bacteria that are trapped inside of the head gear 40. In oneexample, the ultraviolet light source 74 is a mercury-vapor lamp thatemits UV-C light; however, it should be noted that any light source thatemits UV-C rays may be used as well. In one illustration, theultraviolet light source 74 also produces ozone (0₃); however, anultraviolet light source 74 that does not produce ozone may be used aswell. Ozone and UV-C light are combined with moisture that is trappedinside the head gear 2040 to remove odors. More specifically, thecombination of ozone and UV-C light with moisture produces chemicals,such as hydroxyl radicals (—OH), which are purifying agents thatneutralize unpleasant odors that are trapped inside of the head gear 40.

It should be noted that prolonged exposure to UV-C light that is emittedfrom the ultraviolet light source 74 may be harmful to humans. As aresult, as seen in FIGS. 14a-14d , a safety device 2078 is includedalong the outer surface 2028 of the main members 2022. The safety device2078 detects if the head gear 2040 is installed on the main member 22.The ultraviolet light source 2074 is unable to emit UV-C light unlessthe head gear 2040 is secured to the main member 2022. In theillustration as shown in both of FIGS. 1-2, the safety device 2078 islocated on the third member 2034. However, it should be noted that thesafety device 2078 may be located anywhere along the main member 2022.In one illustration, the safety device 2078 is a sensor that detects thepresence of the head gear 2040 along the outer surface 2028. However,the safety device 2078 can be any device that is able to detect whetherthe head gear 2040 is installed along the outer surface 2028 of the mainmember 2022. More than one safety sensor 2078 can also be applied alongthe outer surface 2028 of each of the main members 2022 as well. Inanother example, the safety device 2078 can be a shield or a hood thatprotects against UV-C light that is well-known in the art, and coversthe main members 2022 when in use.

As described above, because the head gear 2040 may contain salt that isemitted from a user's hand, the head gear dryer 20 may also include aspray source 80. The spray source 80 is filled with a solution 82 thatbreaks down salt that collects inside of the head gear 40. The solution82 may also include ingredients that are used to deodorize the inside ofthe head gear 40 such as, but not limited to, cyclodextrin.Additionally, the solution 82 may also include an ingredient to theinside of the head gear 40 such as, but not limited to, isopropylalcohol or chloroxylenol. In one illustration, the solution 82 mayinclude each of the ingredients that breakdown salt, deodorize theinside of the head gear 40, and also disinfect the inside of the headgear 40. Alternatively, the solution 82 may only include one of theingredients that break down salt, disinfect, and deodorize. The solution82 is applied to the inside of the head gear 40 after UV-C light fromthe ultraviolet light source 74 reduces microorganisms, mold, andbacteria that are trapped inside of the head gear 40, as discussed ingreater detail below.

FIG. 17 represents a glove dryer according to the present teachings. Itcan incorporate all of the features described above with respect toglove dryers. Additionally, the base member can be formed of flexible.Breaking points make the joints more flexible to accommodate a fingeredglove.

FIGS. 18a-18c represent an athletic suit dryer according to the presentteachings. Specifically, the FIGS. 14a-14d illustrates the main members22 configured to receive a head gear and armor and, more specifically,the outer surface 28 is configured to receive a head gear and armor thatis used in the Japanese sport of kendo (Kendo Bogu). Shown is the headform as described above. Also shown in FIG. 15b is a drying system asdescribed above configured to dry, the men combined face mask andshoulder protectors (helmet); kote; hand and forearm protectors(gauntlets); do: torso protector (breastplate); tare: groin and legprotectors (faulds); and A fifth component, sune-ate (shin protectors,or greaves), are worn by naginatajutsu practitioners. FIG. 18crepresents a portion of the dryer configured to dry the torso protector.

FIG. 19 represents an athletic suit dryer according to the presentteachings. The athletic suit dryer has a plurality of air hold coupledto a pressurized air sour or fan (not shown). Also included can be asource of ozone as described above.

FIGS. 20a -20B represent footwear dryer according to the presentteachings. As previously described above, the ultraviolet light source(not shown) is included in the footwear dryer 2000′ as well. Thefootwear dryer can have a deformable body member. The ultraviolet lightsource emits UV-C light (also known as germicidal UV light). UV-C isultraviolet light in the C bandwidth of the ultraviolet light spectrum.Ultraviolet irradiation in the C bandwidth (UV-C) is used fordisinfection purposes because the UV-C light kills microorganisms, moldand bacteria that are trapped inside of the foot wear. In one example,the ultraviolet light source is a mercury-vapor lamp that emits UV-Clight; however, it should be noted that any light source that emits UV-Crays may be used as well. In one illustration, the ultraviolet lightsource 74 also produces ozone (0₃); however, an ultraviolet light source74 that does not produce ozone may be used as well. Ozone and UV-C lightare combined with moisture that is trapped inside the footwear to removeodors. More specifically, the combination of ozone and UV-C light withmoisture produces chemicals, such as hydroxyl radicals (—OH), which arepurifying agents that neutralize unpleasant odors that are trappedinside of the footwear.

FIGS. 20A-24 represent alternative dryer according to the presentteachings. The dryer includes a modular design which allows the couplingto various members to a hanger shaped base. As seen in FIGS. 21c-21f ,the attachable members can be conduits for drying air and ozone and canhave baffles to restrict the flow of air. As described above and shownin FIGS. 22-24, UV light can be coupled to the members using lightpiping. The surface of the additional members can be textured to effectthe spread of UV light. Additionally, the UV sources described above canbe coupled to the hanger shaped base. It should be noted that prolongedexposure to UV-C light that is emitted from the ultraviolet light source74 may be harmful to humans.

FIGS. 25a-25e and 26 represent a cloths dyer according to the presentteachings. The dryer includes an incorporated UV source used todisinfect clothing in the dryer drum. The dryer will include an emitterand a darkened dryer door. Optionally, the emitter can be included intoa rim of the dryer door.

Each of the afore-described embodiments can utilize forced heated air orconvection air flow. Drying time can be set by a timer to shut off thefan or heating coil if desired. Fan direction can be reversed to createa vacuum effect to draw moisture out of the textile product. It isenvisioned a tree-type structure having any of the aforementionedstructures disposed thereon.

The body structures can be pliable or can have a catalytic oxidationsurface such as silver, nickel or copper. Optionally, low output ozoneemitters can be used to suppress bacterial growth, mold growth, viruses,odors, and skin cells. When functioning, low level ozone is converted toperoxides (FI2O2), hydroxyl ions (OFT), super oxide ions (0₂″) andozonide ions (0₃″) by the catalytic surface and high intensity UV-Clight. Optionally, nanotechnology can be used to produce the ozone. Inthis regard, the nano-particles can be illuminated with UV light whichconverts oxygen into ozone. Additionally, hydroxyl, hydrogen peroxide,superoxide, and ozonide ions can be utilized.

While shown for drying and sterilizing gloves, it is envisioned theteachings can be applied to drying boots and thickly padded gloves suchas hockey or ski gloves. Optionally, a spray atomizer with disinfectingsolution can be associated with the fan.

Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will bethorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled inthe art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples ofspecific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thoroughunderstanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will beapparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not beemployed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many differentforms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of thedisclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes,well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are notdescribed in detail.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularexample embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As usedherein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and“having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of statedfeatures, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, butdo not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features,integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groupsthereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described hereinare not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance inthe particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specificallyidentified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood thatadditional or alternative steps may be employed.

When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,”“connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may bedirectly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element orlayer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast,when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engagedto,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another elementor layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Otherwords used to describe the relationship between elements should beinterpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directlybetween,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein,the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more ofthe associated listed items.

Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein todescribe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections,these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should notbe limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguishone element, component, region, layer or section from another region,layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numericalterms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearlyindicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region,layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element,component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachingsof the example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,”“lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease ofdescription to describe one element or feature's relationship to anotherelement(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatiallyrelative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations ofthe device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depictedin the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turnedover, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements orfeatures would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features.Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation ofabove and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptorsused herein interpreted accordingly.

While the present disclosure has been particularly shown and describedwith reference to the foregoing preferred illustrations, it should beunderstood by those skilled in the art that various alternatives to theillustrations of the disclosure described herein may be employed inpracticing the disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe disclose as defined in the following claims. For example, the systemdescribed can include a remote control. Optionally, the system canutilize multiple drying or disinfecting structures in the form of atree. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of thedisclosure illustrations within the scope of these claims and theirequivalents be covered thereby. This description of the disclosureshould be understood to include all novel and non-obvious combinationsof elements described herein, and claims may be presented in this or alater application to any novel and non-obvious combination of theseelements. The foregoing embodiment is illustrative, and no singlefeature or element is essential to all possible combinations that may beclaimed in this or a later application.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for sanitizing a mattress, comprising: apair of members, at least one of said members having at least one UV-Cemitter; an ozone source in communication with said pair of members; asource of air flow in communication with said pair of members; a heatsource in communication with said air flow; and a spray source.
 2. Thesystem for sanitizing a mattress as set forth in claim 1, wherein saidmembers are closable.
 3. The system for sanitizing a mattress as setforth in claim 1, wherein said members are hingeably coupled.
 4. Thesystem for sanitizing a mattress as set forth in claim 1, wherein atleast one of said pair of members has apertures in communication withsaid spray source.
 5. The system for sanitizing a mattress as set forthin claim 1, wherein said source of air pressure is operable to create avacuum.
 6. The system for sanitizing a mattress as set forth in claim 1,wherein at least one of said members has a vent.
 7. The system forsanitizing a mattress as set forth in claim 1, further comprising acontroller for controlling air flow by commanding at least one fan. 8.The system for sanitizing a mattress as set forth in claim 1, furthercomprising a controller for controlling air flow by commanding at leastone vent.
 9. The system for sanitizing a mattress as set forth in claim1, further comprising a controller for controlling at least one UV-Cemitter.
 10. The system for sanitizing a mattress as set forth in claim1, further comprising a body structure comprising a catalytic oxidationsurface.
 11. The system for sanitizing a mattress as set forth in claim1, further comprising a source of ions generated by controlling ozonelevels and UV-C light intensity.
 12. The system for sanitizing amattress as set forth in claim 1, further comprising a bag forcontaining heat.
 13. The system for sanitizing a mattress as set forthin claim 1, wherein the spray source is an atomizer.
 14. A method ofsanitizing an article, said method comprising the steps of: applyingUV-C radiation to the article to kill microorganisms; providing ozone tothe article; combining ozone with UV-C radiation and moisture to producea purifying agent; and spraying a solution on the article.
 15. Themethod of sanitizing an article according to claim 14, wherein saidarticle is a mattress.
 16. The method of sanitizing an article accordingto claim 14, further comprising the step of applying pressure and heatto the mattress to kill pathogens.
 17. The method of sanitizing anarticle according to claim 16, wherein said pressure is a vacuum. 18.The method of sanitizing an article according to claim 14, furthercomprising the step of providing a catalytic oxidation surface to formchemicals selected from the group consisting of peroxides and ions. 19.A method of sterilizing a mattress, said method comprising the steps of:receiving a mattress into a sterilizing apparatus, wherein thesterilizing apparatus comprises a pair of opposing members for receivinga mattress in between, wherein at least one of said members has at leastone UV-C emitter; applying pressure to the mattress; emitting UV-Cradiation to the mattress; emitting ozone; and producing a purifyingagent by combining ozone with UV-C radiation and moisture.
 20. Themethod of sterilizing a mattress according to claim 19, furthercomprising the step of spraying a solution on the mattress.